The T-10 Parachute is a series of static line-deployed parachutes used by the United States armed forces for combat mass-assault airborne operations and training. The most current version is the T-10D, which is currently being replaced by the T-11 parachute system.
Depending upon air density and the jumper’s total weight, the parachute’s average rate of descent is from 22 to 24 feet per second (6.7 to 7.3 m/s); total suspended weight limitation is 360 pounds (160 kg). The parachute is deployed using either a 15 or 20 feet (4.6 or 6.1 m) static line, allowing the parachutist to be delivered by either C-130 or C-17 aircraft. The T-10D main parachute is a parabolic-shape and has a nominal diameter of 35 feet (11 m), 30 suspension lines and a mesh anti-inversion net.
The T-10D Parachute assembly consists of five components: pack tray, troop harness, deployment bag, riser, and canopy. The parachute has a combined service life of 16.5 years; service life is 12 years and shelf life is 4.5 years. The T-10D Parachute must be repacked every 120 days. The T-10D Parachute is made of nylon materials commonly used in the manufacturing of parachutes.
The Modified Improved Reserve Parachute System (MIRPS) includes a standard T-10 reserve parachute canopy assembly, integrated with a commercial deployment assistance device composed of a bridle line, pilot parachute, and spring. The pack tray includes a line bag for stowing suspension lines and an inner staging flap that holds the reserve parachute until sufficient tension is achieved through the bridle/pilot parachute assembly during deployment. The MIRPS pack tray is slightly larger than that of the T-10 reserve pack tray so it can accommodate a larger pilot chute, spring, and bridle. The pack tray has a yellow stripe along the rip cord protector flap and is made of nylon textile materials commonly used to make parachute systems.
This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Army.